Film Screening and Discussion – Rule Breakers

Event

In a nation where educating girls is seen as rebellion, a visionary woman dares to teach young minds to dream. When their innovation draws global attention, their success sparks hope—and opposition. As threats loom and sacrifices are made, their courage and unity ignite a movement that could forever transform the world.

This one-night-only film screening of Rule Breakers, directed by two-time Oscar-winner Bill Guttentag, and co-organized by our Geneva Human Rights Platform, the Raoul Wallenberg Institute of Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, and Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, will explore the role of education and technology in shaping the future of young people, particularly girls.

The film tells the true story of Afghanistan’s first all-girls robotics team, showcasing their resilience, determination, and the power of education to drive social change. Set in a country where educating girls is considered an act of defiance, Rule Breakers follows the journey of a pioneering woman who challenges societal norms by encouraging young minds to pursue careers traditionally closed off to Afghan women. These young women, drawn to the world of technology, are inspired to think beyond the traditional paths available to them, pushing against cultural boundaries that have long defined their futures. As their groundbreaking innovation gains international recognition, these courageous women become symbols of hope—and targets of opposition.

The film offers a dramatized interpretation of their inspiring journey as members of Afghanistan's first all-girls robotics team, shedding light on their determination to break through barriers and change the future for girls in Afghanistan and beyond.

The screening will be followed by a panel discussion and Q&A session, moderated by Richard Bennett, UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan.

Directed by two-time Oscar-winner Bill Guttentag and produced by Laura Overdeck.

Schedule:

• 18:30 - Welcome
• 18:40 - 20:40 - Film Screening
• 20:40 - 21:05 - Conversation and Q&A

Access

Registration

Register here to attend this event in person.

Access

Public Transport

Tram 15, Direction Nations - tram stop Maison de la Paix

Access for people with disabilities

Maison de la Paix is accessible to people with disabilities. If you have a disability or any additional needs and require assistance in order to fully participate do not hesitate to contact us info[a]geneva-academy.ch